it bears watching

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it bears watching" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when suggesting that something is worth observing or paying attention to over time. Example: "The new policy changes are significant, and it bears watching how they will impact employee morale in the coming months."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

But it bears watching.

The New York Times

Still, it bears watching if the strain on Cashman's personal life bleeds into his job.

The New York Times - Sports

It bears watching to see if the Rangers' scrupulousness Wednesday is repeated across the N.H.L.

The New York Times - Sports

At this stage, I'm leaving the New Hampshire race in the "leaning Democratic" column, but it bears watching.

The New Yorker

There was no official report on the status of his eye, though it bears watching as the Heat prepare for Game 4 on Tuesday.

The New York Times - Sports

It bears watching whether the companies will look to their patent acquisitions as part of this strategy.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Nobody nowadays asks me how can I bear watching so much trash.

The New York Times - Arts

It also bears watching.

The New York Times - Sports

Although Forrester recently reported that most marketers should ignore location-based services, it certainly bears watching over the coming years.

Forbes

But in a May 11 speech, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke said the deflation threat is "receding," though he added that it still bears watching.

Forbes

But what do you do when those analysts say that they pondered the report at interagency meetings and doubt its accuracy -- but it could be true and bears watching?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using "it warrants attention" or "it's worth monitoring" for a slightly more formal or direct tone.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "it bears watching" can sound overly formal or stiff in casual conversation. Opt for simpler phrases like "keep an eye on it" or "we'll see what happens" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it bears watching" functions as an idiomatic expression used to recommend observation of a particular subject. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, indicating its established use in English. Examples show it often introduces a need to monitor something closely.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"It bears watching" is a common phrase used to suggest that something deserves close observation, especially when the outcome is uncertain or potentially significant. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While commonly found in news and media contexts, it's important to consider the tone, as it can sound slightly formal in casual conversations. Alternatives such as "it warrants attention" or "it's worth monitoring" may be suitable depending on the specific situation. The phrase is particularly useful when highlighting the need for ongoing attention due to potential consequences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it warrants attention

Focuses on the idea that something deserves to be noticed and considered.

it merits observation

Highlights the value or worth of observing something.

it is worth monitoring

Emphasizes the ongoing need to keep track of something's progress or changes.

it should be noted

Draws attention to a specific fact or detail.

it's important to observe

Stresses the significance of watching something closely.

one should keep an eye on

Suggests a need for vigilance and careful observation.

it demands scrutiny

Implies the need for thorough and critical examination.

it requires close attention

Indicates that something needs careful and focused observation.

it's crucial to observe

Highlights the critical nature of observation for understanding or success.

this calls for vigilance

Emphasizes the need for alertness and watchfulness.

FAQs

What does "it bears watching" mean?

The phrase "it bears watching" means that something is worth paying attention to because it could change or develop in a significant way. It implies a need for ongoing observation.

How can I use "it bears watching" in a sentence?

You can use "it bears watching" to suggest that a situation needs to be monitored. For example: "The company's new marketing strategy is experimental, so "it is worth monitoring" to see if it increases sales."

What are some alternatives to saying "it bears watching"?

Some alternatives include "it warrants attention", "it merits observation", or ""it is worth monitoring"". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "it bears watching" a formal or informal expression?

"It bears watching" is generally considered a neutral to slightly formal expression. While acceptable in most contexts, simpler phrases might be preferred in very informal settings.